Frequently Asked Questions

How do students earn the diploma?Students receive a score from 1-7 in each of their six IB Courses. A total of 24 points is necessary to earn the diploma along with the satisfactory completion of the IB Core: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Extended Essay (EE) and Creativity, Action & Service (CAS). Additional points can be earned through Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay. Test results will be made available during the summer after graduation. See attachment below for a detailed description of how the diploma is earned.

What is the difference between SL and HL courses?Standard Level (SL) courses require 150 hours of instruction over one or two years. Higher Level (HL) courses require 240 hours of instruction over two years. Students are required to take a minimum of three HL courses and it is recommended that they take no more than four. SL one year courses are weighted 1.130 (with exam) and two year SL and HL courses are weighted 1.130 during year one and year two (with exam).

What are the requirements of CAS?Students will meet with the CAS Advisor, Mr. Todd Harral, during the spring of their sophomore year. Mr. Harral will review the properties of CAS and help each student to develop a unique "portfolio" of experiences to develop creativity, participation in purposeful activities and service to others. Students will be encouraged to take on personal challenges and reflect on the meaningful experiences.

What are the Extended Essay requirements?Students will select a topic of interest and begin writing the Extended Essay during the middle of their junior year. The essay must be completed by the middle of the senior year. A teacher / mentor will be assigned to each student to provide guidance and support through the process. Mrs. Amy Miller is the Extended Essay Coordinator.

Do students receive grades for Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay or CAS?Theory or Knowledge meets every other day during the junior and senior year. Students will be graded and will receive .5 credit for both junior and senior years. TOK will be weighted 1.130. Upon completion of the Extended Essay and CAS during the senior year, students will receive a one-time P/F grade for each worth a .25 credit.

How does IB compare to AP?IB and AP are excellent academic opportunities for our students. With AP, students select what courses they want to take and can focus on their areas of interest. IB is a program where students are required to study a broad range of topics and the emphasis is on being a "well-rounded" student. The IB experience is interdisciplinary and courses will be connected through the Theory of Knowledge class that meets every other day. IB emphasizes international-mindedness and the development of the whole learner. In addition, the Extended Essay and heavy writing emphasis of IB is excellent preparation for college.

How do colleges look at IB?Acceptance of IB and AP coursework varies from college to college but being an IB Diploma student does suggest that you are well-rounded and pursuing an exceptionally rigorous course of studies. Check college websites for the most current information.

Students who intend to pursue admission to a university outside the United States are strongly urged to review the policies of the relevant government and/or institutions. Though the IB Diploma is very widely recognized as an entrance credential to universities throughout the world, some countries stipulate the completion of certain courses or the attainment of minimum scores. Please see http://www.ibo.org/university-admission/recognition-of-the-ib-diploma-by-countries-and-universities/
Will students be able to participate in the music programs at CV if they choose to do IB?

This is possible but each case must be considered individually; contact your Guidance Counselor and/or Mrs. Amy Miller with questions.

What is the cost of doing the IB Programme?The cost includes a one-time registration fee and subject fees for six courses.
May 2018 fees: $172 registration; $119 subject